Vena Energy Holds Check Turnover for Indigenous Community Support

Quezon Wind Energy Corp., a subsidiary of Vena Energy, marked a significant milestone in its community engagement journey with a ceremonial turnover of funds to its host community—the Dumagat/Remontado Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) of Tanay. Held in Quezon City on April 21, 2026, the event underscored the company’s long-standing commitment to inclusive and responsible development.

At the heart of the ceremony was the formal remittance of community development funds to the Tanay ICCs through Tanay Dumagat Remontado Ancestral Domain Development Inc.—the duly recognized Indigenous Peoples’ Organization established through the Free Prior and Informed Consent process. This mechanism ensures that indigenous communities are active decision-makers in projects affecting their ancestral domains.

Through this partnership, Vena Energy continues to support community-led initiatives that reflect the priorities of the ICCs—from infrastructure development and access to education, to sustainable livelihoods and improved healthcare services. The approach places indigenous voices at the forefront, ensuring that development aligns with both cultural values and long-term aspirations.

The ceremony brought together key leaders from both sides, including Mia Jarumayan, Head of Business Development and Project Development, and Eleonor Atencio, who represented the Tanay ICCs.

According to Samrinder Nehria, the initiative reflects a broader vision for energy development: one that goes beyond infrastructure. He emphasized that the transition to clean energy must generate meaningful, lasting value for host communities while respecting their heritage and rights—ensuring that indigenous voices remain central in shaping a sustainable future.

A Model for Inclusive, Sustainable Development

The collaboration between Vena Energy and the Tanay ICCs stands as a compelling model for responsible renewable energy development in the Philippines. By strictly adhering to the FPIC framework, the partnership is built on transparency, mutual respect, and continuous dialogue.

For Atencio, the impact of this collaboration is deeply personal and transformative. She highlighted how the partnership has empowered their community—opening doors to opportunities, strengthening confidence, and inspiring collective growth.

This sentiment was echoed by Carlos Buasen Jr. of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, who praised the sustained and harmonious relationship between Vena Energy and the ICCs. He noted that the company’s sustainability efforts extend beyond operations, actively supporting the people and ancestral domains connected to its projects.

Powering Communities, Preserving Heritage

More than a ceremonial milestone, the turnover represents a meaningful and evolving partnership grounded in shared progress and respect. By embedding community-led development into its operations, Vena Energy reinforces its commitment to protecting ancestral domain rights while enabling self-determination.

As the Philippines accelerates its transition to renewable energy, this collaboration demonstrates that progress can—and should—be inclusive. It’s a model where clean energy development not only powers the grid but also uplifts communities, preserves heritage, and advances a future built on equity, partnership, and care.